LAMA’s latest newsletter highlights an urgent Farm Bill vote that could significantly impact SNAP and hunger programs, along with action alerts and advocacy resources from the ELCA. The update also includes upcoming events, grant opportunities, and Bishop Hutterer’s recent op-ed on food access in Arizona.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Melissa Harr, who celebrates 15 years on May 1.
Deacon Don Burgess, who celebrates 21 years on May 1.
Deacon Emma Janzen, Resurrection, Oro Valley, who celebrates 1 year on May 3.
Next week, the Office of the Bishop staff will be engaged in a wide range of ministry—from international visits and leadership development to storytelling for Synod Assembly, administrative support, and ongoing communications. Alongside this work, the team continues preparations for upcoming events, financial reporting, and key synod initiatives while also taking time for renewal and rest.
Read MoreMosaic continues to empower individuals with disabilities to live full, independent lives across the Grand Canyon Synod. Through direct support, advocacy, and inclusive worship initiatives, Mosaic’s work multiplies good across families, congregations, and communities. Read their 2026 Assembly report.
Read MoreMay 7 at 10:00am (Zoom): The SYAT Collective invites youth ministry leaders to a practical session on preparing for summer trips. Learn how to set behavior expectations, manage group dynamics, and connect with others across the synod. Register here.
Open to both new and experienced leaders, this gathering offers tools, shared wisdom, and encouragement for guiding young people in meaningful, faith-filled summer experiences. Register now to join.
Read MoreA limited number of discounted rooms are still available for the 2026 Synod Assembly at Westgate Painted Mountain Golf Resort in Mesa, with rates starting at $83/night. Reservations must be made by May 8, 2026, using the group code, and rooms are expected to fill quickly.
Additional nearby hotels in Mesa and Gilbert offer convenient options for attendees. Book early to secure your preferred lodging as we prepare to gather for worship, discernment, and shared ministry.
Read MoreAs the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly approaches, congregations and ministries across the synod are invited to share stories of how God is at work in their communities. Submissions—including written reflections, photos, short videos, or audio—should be sent to Brian Flatgard by Friday, May 8, 2026. Learn how to share your story here.
Gathering under the theme “Rooted in God’s Story” (Psalm 78:4), the synod will highlight around 50 ministry stories through the assembly, blog, newsletter, and social media. This is an opportunity to celebrate the many ways God is working across Arizona, southern Nevada, St. George, Utah, and the Navajo Nation.
Read MoreThe deadline for the Grand Canyon Synod’s Rooted at the Table recipe project is almost here. All recipes will be shared online, with a curated selection included in the printed Synod Assembly cookbook.
Submit your recipe by May 1, 2026 and be part of a collection that reflects the shared life, faith, and community of our synod.
Read MoreYoung adults are invited to a special Women of the ELCA webinar on Wednesday, May 6 at 4:30 p.m. (AZ/NV time). Hear from three young leaders—Naomi Mbise, Rebeca Amaro Trevino, and Bliss Tungnung—who have launched ministries supporting women and girls around the world through Seed Grants.
Learn how they discerned their call, started their work, and how you can make a difference in the church and world. Register now to join this inspiring conversation.
Read MoreNominations are open for leadership roles to be elected at the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly, including Synod Secretary, council members, and committee positions. Any member in good standing may nominate themselves or others, with all forms due by May 4, 2026.
This is an invitation to prayerfully discern how God may be calling leaders to serve in the life of the synod. Learn more about open positions and submit nominations today. Learn more and submit a nomination.
Read MoreThe Church Property Resource Hub is a new ELCA initiative offering tools, training, and shared wisdom to help congregations steward buildings and land faithfully. Designed in response to real needs across the church, CPRH equips leaders to reimagine property as a resource for mission. Learn more about CPRH.
Read MoreWith SNAP participation in Arizona dropping by nearly half in the past year, Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer calls attention to the real human impact behind the numbers and urges leaders to ensure access to food assistance as budget decisions are made.
Read MoreCamp ALOMA in Prescott is hiring Summer 2026 counselors (18+) for May 20–July 20, with flexible scheduling options. Training begins May 20, with camp running seven weeks starting May 31.
Staff receive pay, meals, and lodging while gaining leadership experience, growing in faith, and building lasting relationships. Learn more at campaloma.com or contact Leah, Camp Director, at office@campaloma.com or 928-778-1690.
Read MoreLEAN continues to mobilize Lutherans across Nevada for advocacy rooted in faith and justice. From legislative engagement to grassroots organizing, this ministry invites congregations to live out their faith publicly and boldly in service of their neighbors.
Read MoreJoin Part Two of our refugee webinar on Thursday, April 30 at 10:30 a.m., featuring Valentina Restrepo-Montoya, CEO of Arizona Legal Women and Youth Services. This follow-up session will offer practical insights into immigration and legal challenges impacting refugees and immigrant communities.
Read MoreExecutive Skills for Church Leaders returns January 4–8, 2027, at Spirit in the Desert in Carefree, Arizona. This leadership development experience equips rostered ministers and lay leaders with practical skills for today’s ministry context. Join the interest list now to receive early updates and registration access: bit.ly/ExecSkills27.
Read MoreEveryday environments can quickly become overwhelming for people with sensory processing differences. For one Mosaic Home Provider, communication and planning are key to helping the person he supports enjoy church services and community events
The post Managing Sensory Overload: Mosaic Provider Shares Advice, What’s Worked for Him appeared first on Mosaic.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod gives thanks for Pastor Andrea Cain’s faithful service as Fiesta Conference Dean and welcomes Pastor Charles Newman, who will begin serving in the role on May 1, 2026. Conference Deans play a key role in connecting congregations, supporting leaders, and strengthening collaboration across the synod.
Pastor Newman brings more than 20 years of ministry experience and a deep commitment to the local church. Join us in giving thanks for Pastor Cain’s leadership and welcoming Pastor Newman into this important role.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod welcomes Rev. Cherlyne Beck as a Transition Coach. A former ELCA churchwide staff leader and Director of Candidacy, she brings decades of experience in leadership development, call processes, and congregational ministry.
Now based in Prescott Valley, Rev. Beck will support congregations and leaders in times of transition, continuing the church’s work of discernment and faithful change across the synod.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod gives thanks for the ministry of Rev. Phil Gustafson as he concludes his role as Transition Coach while continuing interim service in Goodyear through June 30. With decades of experience in congregational leadership, coaching, and transition ministry, Pastor Phil has faithfully guided individuals and congregations through seasons of change.
We celebrate his contributions to the synod and give thanks for his steady leadership, spiritual insight, and commitment to God’s work in times of transition.
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